Product Details
- Brand: Reese
- Model: 66542 63896
- Includes: 12K Weight Distribution Hitch
Description
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Reese 12K Trailer Weight Distribution Hitch Trunnion Spring Bars Adjustable Shank w/ 2-5/16" Ball, 1,200 lbs TW, Brackets, Hardware Travel Trailer Load Equilizing Hitch Install Notes
Installation Instructions for Trunnion Style Weight Distributing Kits ## Part Numbers - 66542 --- ## Tools Required - Drill Bits: 7/16”, 9/16”, and 1/4” - Wrenches: 3/4", 1-1/8”, and 15/16” - Torque Wrench (capable of 300 ft-lbs) - Tape Measure - Grease or Heavy Oil - C-Clamp --- ## Hardware List 1. Hitch Bar 2. Ball Mount 3. Spring Bars 4. Trunnions 5. Snap-Up Brackets 6. 5/8” Lock Washers 7. 5/8”-11 Hex Bolts 8. Chains with U-Bolts 9. 1/2”-13 Self-Tapping Screws --- ## Step-by-Step Installation Instructions ### Initial Setup 1. Align the tow vehicle and trailer on level ground, uncoupled, and in a straight-ahead position. 2. Level the trailer and measure the distance from the ground to the top of the ball socket. Record this value as X
. 3. Choose a hitch ball matching the trailer coupler size (1-7/8", 2", or 2-5/16") and ensure its rating equals or exceeds the trailer's GVWR. > Warning: Raised hitch balls often have reduced load ratings. Ensure the ball's rating is suitable. 4. Attach the hitch ball to the ball mount using a lock washer and nut. Torque to: - 450 ft-lbs for 1-1/4” nuts - 250 ft-lbs for 1” nuts 5. Insert the hitch bar into the receiver and secure it with a pull pin. 6. Adjust the ball mount so the ball sits 3/4" to 1" higher than the coupler height to account for vehicle squat. ### Preliminary Adjustments 1. Install hardware in the lower hole of the ball mount to secure its position. 2. Insert the spring bars into the ball mount sockets and adjust their height (Y
) based on the provided table. Tilt the ball mount for proper alignment. --- ## Maintenance 1. Lubricate the ball mount sockets and trunnion bars daily with heavy grease or oil. 2. Clean the hitch ball and coupler socket after each use and apply grease lightly. 3. Inspect bolts, chains, and U-bolts for wear and tighten or replace as necessary. --- ## Safety Notes - Always ensure the trailer is level and the weight is distributed evenly. - Never tow a trailer that exceeds the ratings of your vehicle, hitch, or trailer. - Use safety chains and confirm all electrical connections are functional before each trip. --- ## Warranty Information - Limited Lifetime Warranty: Covers defects in materials and workmanship for the original purchaser. - Exclusions: - Normal wear and tear - Misuse, overloading, or improper maintenance - Claims require proof of purchase and must be submitted to Horizon Global America, Inc. --- ## Manufacturer Details - Company: Horizon Global America, Inc. - Contact: 1-888-521-0510 - Document Revision: 66006IN, 05/29/13, Rev. L
Installation Instructions for Trunnion Style Weight Distributing Kits
Part Numbers - 66542
Tools Required
- Drill Bits: 7/16”, 9/16”, and 1/4”
- Wrenches: 3/4", 1-1/8”, and 15/16”
- Torque Wrench (capable of 300 ft-lbs)
- Tape Measure
- Grease or Heavy Oil
- C-Clamp
Hardware List
- Hitch Bar
- Ball Mount
- Spring Bars
- Trunnions
- Snap-Up Brackets
- 5/8” Lock Washers
- 5/8”-11 Hex Bolts
- Chains with U-Bolts
- 1/2”-13 Self-Tapping Screws
Step-by-Step Installation Instructions
Initial Setup
- Align the tow vehicle and trailer on level ground, uncoupled, and in a straight-ahead position.
- Level the trailer and measure the distance from the ground to the top of the ball socket. Record this value as
X
. - Choose a hitch ball matching the trailer coupler size (1-7/8", 2", or 2-5/16") and ensure its rating equals or exceeds the trailer's GVWR.
Warning: Raised hitch balls often have reduced load ratings. Ensure the ball's rating is suitable.
- Attach the hitch ball to the ball mount using a lock washer and nut. Torque to:
- 450 ft-lbs for 1-1/4” nuts
- 250 ft-lbs for 1” nuts
- Insert the hitch bar into the receiver and secure it with a pull pin.
- Adjust the ball mount so the ball sits 3/4" to 1" higher than the coupler height to account for vehicle squat.
Preliminary Adjustments
- Install hardware in the lower hole of the ball mount to secure its position.
- Insert the spring bars into the ball mount sockets and adjust their height (
Y
) based on the provided table. Tilt the ball mount for proper alignment.
Maintenance
- Lubricate the ball mount sockets and trunnion bars daily with heavy grease or oil.
- Clean the hitch ball and coupler socket after each use and apply grease lightly.
- Inspect bolts, chains, and U-bolts for wear and tighten or replace as necessary.
Safety Notes
- Always ensure the trailer is level and the weight is distributed evenly.
- Never tow a trailer that exceeds the ratings of your vehicle, hitch, or trailer.
- Use safety chains and confirm all electrical connections are functional before each trip.
Warranty Information
- Limited Lifetime Warranty: Covers defects in materials and workmanship for the original purchaser.
- Exclusions:
- Normal wear and tear
- Misuse, overloading, or improper maintenance
- For complete warranty instructions, please download the full installation PDF.
For technical support and assistance, our team of experts is available to help. You can reach our tech support by visiting www.trailerjacks.com or calling 877-869-6690.